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Former NFL Pro Bowl running back Doug Martin dealt with "mental health challenges prior to his death over the weekend, his family and his agent, Brian Murphy of Athletes First, confirmed in a statement shared Monday (October 20) night.
"Privately, Doug battled mental health challenges that profoundly impacted his personal and professional life. Ultimately, mental illness proved to be the one opponent from which Doug could not run," the statement reads. "Following recent media reports about Doug's untimely passing, the family wishes to clarify the circumstances. Doug's parents were actively seeking medical assistance for him and had contacted local authorities for support. Feeling overwhelmed and disoriented, Doug fled his home during the night and entered a neighbor's residence two doors down, where he was taken into custody by police. An investigation into what transpired as he was detained is underway.
"The family requests privacy as they navigate this heartbreaking loss."
Martin, 36, was previously identified as the individual who reportedly resisted arrest while being detained in his hometown of Oakland, California at around 4:15 a.m. on Saturday (October 18). The former NFL star reportedly suffered a "medical emergency" before the "brief struggle" ensured, at which point he became unresponsive.
Martin was transported to a nearby hospital where he was later pronounced dead.
“It is with great sadness to inform you all that Doug Martin passed away Saturday morning,” Martin's family said in a statement obtained by the New York Post. ”Cause of death is currently unconfirmed.”
Martin's cause of death remains under investigation by multiple law enforcement agencies and the officers involved have been placed on administrative leave in adherence with department protocol. Martin's death was initially reported by TMZ Sports, which cited a source with direct knowledge of the situation, on Sunday.
The former Boise State standout was the first first-round running back in program history when he was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at No. 31 overall in the 2012 NFL Draft. Martin spent six of his seven NFL seasons with Buccaneers, which included being selected as a First-team All-Pro in 2015, as well as a two-time Pro Bowler, both in 2015 and during his rookie season in 2012 and holds several franchise records, as well as the NFL record for most touchdowns in a half (4).
The Oakland native spent his final NFL season with the then-Oakland Raiders in 2018. Martin finished his NFL career with 5,356 yards, 30 touchdowns and 1,322 rushing attempts, as well as 148 receptions for 1,207 yards and two touchdowns in seven seasons.